Do you use an edge profile to protect your tile installation? It's particularly valuable when transitioning from tile to another flooring surface material. However, to work, the profile must be installed correctly. Let's explore.
If you're considering how to install natural stone floor tile, be aware that there's a significant difference between natural stone and ceramic tile especially when it's over wood framing.
Unfortunately, many consumers, builders and even some tile installers share the mistaken idea that natural stone tile products may be installed over a wood-framed floor in the same way as is ceramic and porcelain tile. This is completely untrue and will many times lead to a very costly replacement.
Why? Because tiles made from natural stone do not have the same strength as ceramic tiles and they require a floor system that is twice as stiff as what is required for ceramic floor tile.
Let's explore in more detail.
Would you agree that mortars and grouts matter to a successful tile installation project? And that you need them to be properly mixed?
Let's talk about floor prep. How seriously do you take it?
Realize that the success or failure of most tile projects is keyed to the amount of floor prep provided and the attention to detail. When you or anyone else cuts corners to save time and or money on a job, the result is almost always failure.
To make my point, here are specific examples highlighting seven perils of improper floor prep. You may have encountered others that we can add to the list.
Perhaps it seems self-evident that the tile patterns you select need to be balanced when installed. And, yet, simply based on photos readily available, balance and common sense don't always go hand-in-hand.
Especially when your tile choices come in so many more sizes, shapes, patterns, and colors than in the past. Along with this availability comes creativity with endless possibilities.
Today we will focus on one of these options – the pattern. Combining these tiles, whether square or rectangular, with an offset pattern creates a unique visual many times not realized in is square or stacked design.
How do you handle tile shade variation? Do you make a point of bringing it up with customers before starting a tile installation project? If you don't, I urge you to do so. Not only is it a great opportunity to educate your customers about tile installation methods, standards and best practices, but it also helps you avoid what I refer to as the "Five-O-Five Surprise."
Lippage occurs entirely too often, making three specific hazards way too prevalent, and definitely ones you should avoid. More specifically,
- The hazard of having tile installations rejected,
- Creating serious injury hazards,
- Hazardous and objectionable visuals that affect everyone involved
Have you encountered situations where a tile installation called for a 50% offset and credit card grout joints? And, then, once installed it led to lippage problems, misaligned grout joints, and/or an unhappy customer?
I'm pleased to inform you that you can officially find guidance - and justification for avoiding a 50% offset - in the TCNA Handbook.
Ready to learn more?
